Built between 1958 and 1962 Simpson-Lee House I stands proudly at 23 Roland Avenue Wahroonga. This isn’t just a house. It’s a testament to Australian modernist architecture. Designed by Arthur Baldwinson it showcases his unique style. A style influenced by his time working with giants like Walter Gropius and Maxwell Fry in London. He brought European modernism to Australia adapting it brilliantly to our local context.
Professor Geelum and Mrs Sheila Simpson-Lee commissioned this home. They were discerning clients. They understood architecture deeply even without formal training. Originally drawn to the work of Sydney Ancher a suggestion led them to Baldwinson. He happened to be a colleague of Professor Simpson-Lee at Sydney University. This connection proved fruitful.
The Simpson-Lee House I isn’t just aesthetically pleasing. It’s historically significant. It’s a remarkably intact example of Baldwinson’s work. The house retains its original finishes. It even keeps its original colour scheme. The garden too remains as the architect originally designed it. The original architectural drawings specifications and colour schemes are even preserved in the Caroline Simpson Library of the Historic Houses Trust.
The house’s design reflects the Simpson-Lees’ needs and sensibilities. It’s modest in size reflecting the modernist ethic of the time. This is a key aspect of Baldwinson’s mature work. It’s a site-responsive design. This means the house interacts beautifully with its surroundings. The house integrates seamlessly with the landscape. The building is set well back from Roland Avenue. It’s superbly sited responding effortlessly to the site contours. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls connect the interior with the exterior spaces and native Australian landscape.
Simpson-Lee House I is more than a house. It’s a living piece of history. A window into the evolution of Australian modernist architecture. It is a place where the past present and future of Australian design collide. It’s a place where you can see a harmonious blend of European modernism and Australian landscape. The Simpson-Lee family’s legacy lives on through this beautiful home.